Thanksgiving Thoughts

The Plymouth colonists and Wampanoag Indians shared an autumn harvest feast in 1621. Acknowledged as one of the first Thanksgiving celebrations in the colonies, it is not the only one celebrated by colonists.  The Berkley Plantation, VA colonists recorded a Thanksgiving event after arriving safely from a long voyage across the Atlantic in 1619.  All of these celebrations were in keeping with a long tradition of celebrating the harvest and giving thanks established by Native Americans.  Pueblo, Cherokee, Creek and many others had organized  harvest festivals, which included feasts, ceremonial dances and other celebrations for centuries before the arrival of European settlers in North America.

The harvest meal shared between the Plymouth colonists and the Wampanoag Indians has become a symbol of cooperation between the colonists and Native Americans.  The legacy of giving thanks and of the feast have survived for centuries.  

As we gather to celebrate the harvest, Robert and I commend you all for maintaining a grateful spirit.  We are thankful for all of you.

By the way, did you know that a wild turkey has 3,500 feathers, can run at up to 25 mph and fly at up to 55 mph?  Guess that is why we count on the state of Minnesota to provide the majority of domestic turkeys eaten in 90% of the US homes on Thanksgiving Day!